 Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78
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OP
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78 |
Hey guys,
Just swinging in to say hello again. I may have a lead on a used 07 America (through a dealer)and will probably have a price this week.
The Triumphs definitely look (and feel) like a step above the rest. The only challenging thing is the price tag. A local Yamaha dealer is selling the V Star 650 customs for $4449.00 this week and that is an amazing price.
Hopefully the 07 America will be a nice price. I realize we're talking apples and bananas here but I'm not sure how much of a difference it would make to a new rider (who may dump it)
I'll let you guys know if I buy the Triumph.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1 |
From the sounds of things that you have posted, you really would like to have the America over any other cruiser out there (it really is a better bike all around) and it seems that you are putting the deciding factor on the price. I know how that goes. However, I also believe in making choices that you will not later regret. As in, I really wanted to buy ... insert whatever here... but I settledd for this instead and maybe I'll someday get... insert whatever here... The reality of it is that unless you get the bike that you will truly be happy with, you wont truly be happy with the bike you settle for or with yourself. The other reality is that "someday I'll buy a .. insert whatever here.." usually never comes for most people. You have to get what will sastisfy you the first time.
It isnt really just a motorcycle. Like so many other things in life, it is an extension of yourself.
I hope you can get a good price on that America.
Soren
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,354 |
Oates, Do not buy the Yamaha V Star 650. It is underpowered with that engine and you have to make valve adjustments every 4000 miles. There's a good reason as to why they are discounting them. In my months of research (and I was pretty keen on Yamaha for a while...just not the 650), I saw a common thread that people would buy that particular bike cheap and then realize it's underpowered for anything more than cruising a few streets around town. It is not suitable for really cruising along at highway speeds. I am also a new biker. I am extremely pleased with my America. I took it for a 180 mile ride up to Mount Rainier the other day and had no serious problems. The bike is very tolerant of my inexperience and it was a very comfortable ride all day (another issue about the the Vstars, the stock seat is not good for riding more than an hour or so). Yes, I have laid the bike down twice. Once on the right and on the left. These were low speed laydowns and completely due to my newbie-ness. It seems the only damage, besides public humiliation and a small scape on the elbow, was to the stock exhaust pipes. They now have "beauty marks". But these will be replaced with Bubs at the 600 mile service. For a fellow newbiw, I would strongly recommend waiting on changing the pipes until then. Get your practice in. I am improving. The only thing really kicking my butt is starting off on an uphill and that just needs practice and coordinating some new muscles. One thing that is great, and I am really enjoying it, is how people always come by to look at my bike. I don't like being the center of attention, in my time off, but I do like how people are drawn to my beautiful bike. Sure, you will pay more for the Triumph, but I am very pleased with the bike so far  and am very glad I did not go with the Yamaha. Conwy
Blue/White 2007 TBA, Thruxton needles, Unifilter, AI removed, Polaris Bellmouth, Bubs, Nology Coils/wires, Lightbar, Ricor Intiminators, Hagon Nitros, Tall Sissy Bar w/luggage rack, Dart flyscreen & Lowers. 130 Mains, TrueGel Battery MG12-BS.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 235
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 235 |
Agree about the V-Stars being underpowered. I had the 1100cc model for about 4 months.....bought it brand new and it was gutless. Cruising at 70mph two-up it vibrated worse than a H-D...took it back to the dealers for it's 4000 mile service and mentioned the terrible vibes to him. Was told they all do it due to the v-twin configuration...I traded it the following week.
If you do go the V-Star route take a long test ride at all different speeds right through the rev range and be sure you can live with it day on day.
Then go and buy a Triumph.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,623 Likes: 2 |
The Triumph twins will be pricier than most comparable Asian-made riceburners (wait a second, they ARE Asian-made riceburners now!).
But the Triumphs are pretty strong, reliable bikes for the price. Go for it.
Kevin - Luceo Non Uro
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78
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OP
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78 |
I knew you guys would assure me. I hope this used 07 w/ under 1,000 miles comes through at a nice price. If that happens - everything will come together and I'll have the bike soon.
I'll keep you guys updated. Thanks again.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78
Member
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OP
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78 |
I completely hear what you're saying. And since the little lady has been talking about "babies" in a year or so I probably will never get the upgrade....LOL
I'd better get the Triumph now.
All jokes aside - the America is probably the way to go. Laying it down is the big fear (as it feels a bit heavier than the V Star). But learning to ride on your "dream bike" and having it for years and years is probably priceless. Most likely I'll be opting for this used 07. I hope the dealer comes back w/ a nice deal.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 100
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 100 |
I had the tough decision to make also between a 1999 Kawasaki Vulcan drifter "indian clone" 1500 loaded with 1900 miles on it for $5200. Or my 03 TBA for $4900 with 8k on the clock.My friend told me that i better get the bike I really want because if price is the thing that makes up your decision you will most likely regret your purchase.Let me tell you that I AM SO GLAD I GOT THE TBA!!!to me now all kaws yams and hondas an suzuks look the same.Man go your own way!! Get the TRiumph you won't regret it.Plus anywhere you go people with gather and talk about your bike or that they had a triumph back in the day and so forth....
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1
Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,164 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
I completely hear what you're saying. And since the little lady has been talking about "babies" in a year or so I probably will never get the upgrade....LOL
I'd better get the Triumph now.
All jokes aside - the America is probably the way to go. Laying it down is the big fear (as it feels a bit heavier than the V Star). But learning to ride on your "dream bike" and having it for years and years is probably priceless. Most likely I'll be opting for this used 07. I hope the dealer comes back w/ a nice deal.
Yes, you are absolutley right. You should get the Triumph now. Especially since you are planning on having a family, you may never get a chance (at least for another 20 years) to upgrade.
Do not worry about dumping the bike. It may be a little bit heavier than the V-Star, however the America is a very well behaved bike and will be more comfortable and easier to ride than the V-Star. The amount of weight with most bikes does not really matter, it is how the weight is displaced.
I use to worry about dumping my bike too. My Speedmaster is the first bike I bought after 15 years of not riding. These bikes are absolutley awesome for a first timer, a returning rider or an experienced rider.
Soren
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,693 Likes: 22
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,693 Likes: 22 |
The banks require more money down and give a shorter time period on a note for a used one. I said that to let you know I understand.
From prior posts, I am absolutely convinced you want a Triumph. You are undecided because of the money, not the bike. If you shop price for the bike rather than the bike you will be left wanting. That is bad cause the used market sucks for sellers.
Find a way to buy a used one Oates. The financial part will be better in the long run and you will have a Triumph. If you put more down and pay it off faster, that is way better for you. I know its a painful thought though.
Anyhow, stop looking at other stuff. It just confuses you and brings you right back to where you started (Triumph).
I try to aggravate one person a day. Today may be your day.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
walnecks.com, cycletader.com, craigslist.org
'nuff said
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643
Monkey Butt
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Monkey Butt
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 7,643 |
Make the right decision, as it is a costly one not to. 
Ray(UK)
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 Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,240
Oil Expert
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Oil Expert
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 2,240 |
Quit the negative thinking about dropping the bike! Just stop fixating on that. Nobody says you have to, and new or not to riding, it could happen to any of us at any time. One of the risks we assume when we decide we want to participate in this sport (activity, whatever you want to call it...). You simply can NOT make a purchasing decision based on the assumption you are going to go out and lay it down somewhere! You must not do this to yourself! Now I just sat down and logged on to post about how "enough" these bikes are for two-up riding, and saw your post here.....do NOT buy that V-star! The 650 especially will have you regretting it almost immediately, and as previously stated, even the 1100 leaves a lot to be desired. I had to get over the "bigger is better" thing before I decided the Speedmaster really could do all I need it to - two-up or not. This forum had all the answers I needed, as I, just like you, was wondering the same things before I bought. I thought I HAD to have a VTX - 1300 coming along right as I was getting ready to bite the bullet. But this forum convinced me otherwise about how the CCs don't matter so much as the torque and HP numbers, and chain drive is easy to live with, and water cooling is not a necessity....even thought I had to have radial tires at one point, just because some of the bigger cruisers had them so I perceived it to be better. Try to get a deal on a pre-owned Triumph, if you can - they are out there, but you have to work at it. The good deals go real quick - (just ask Moe). Hope you get what is going to be right for you. Don't count on the "trade-up" thing ever happening. If it does, it does - just don't count on it as being required. We all wish you the right choice/decision, and happy safe riding once you are on one.  
Keith
Houston
Ridin'Texas
'04 Speedmaster
AI removed, Pingle, UNI Filter, 1 shim, straight-through slash-cut TORs, Stage 1 DynaJet, 140 mains, 3 turns, 16/42 final drive, 115K
2020 T120 Black
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78
Member
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OP
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 78 |
Thanks for the words, guys. I'll know about the price of the 07 on Thursday and will have some $$ handy if I have to lay down more for the financing.
Wish me luck on the pricing!!
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 436
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 436 |
Quote:
Thanks for the words, guys. I'll know about the price of the 07 on Thursday and will have some $$ handy if I have to lay down more for the financing.
Wish me luck on the pricing!!
I just bought a used '02 TBA. You will not regret getting a Triumph! Even the guy i bought it from rides a HD Road King for the police...he said the TBA is a better bike.
The look is better and cooler, it's fast and got plenty of torque, and the ride is great. Re-sell value will be better.
If you have to, wait until you have the extra $ to buy a Triumph. That's what i'd do anyway. Try to take a ride on one if you haven't already, then you'll really find out.
Good luck!
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3
Old Hand
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Old Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3 |
A V star is not worth the powder it would take to blow it up. The 650 has about half the power that a Triumph 790 does, it's a lot heavier and handles like a '51 Buick. My OL (Old Lady) just had to have one because it was "cute". A year later, it was traded off on my Triumph. It had 37 miles on it including the 14 mile ride to the dealer. It was no joy to ride and, when I got a service manual and saw how poorly it was designed, that was the end of it.
On the other hand, the Triumph America is fun to ride, handles like a sport bike, and the engineering is really impressive.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,193
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,193 |
Quote:
Quote:
I completely hear what you're saying. And since the little lady has been talking about "babies" in a year or so I probably will never get the upgrade....LOL
I'd better get the Triumph now.
All jokes aside - the America is probably the way to go. Laying it down is the big fear (as it feels a bit heavier than the V Star). But learning to ride on your "dream bike" and having it for years and years is probably priceless. Most likely I'll be opting for this used 07. I hope the dealer comes back w/ a nice deal.
Yes, you are absolutley right. You should get the Triumph now. Especially since you are planning on having a family, you may never get a chance (at least for another 20 years) to upgrade.
Do not worry about dumping the bike. It may be a little bit heavier than the V-Star, however the America is a very well behaved bike and will be more comfortable and easier to ride than the V-Star. The amount of weight with most bikes does not really matter, it is how the weight is displaced.
I use to worry about dumping my bike too. My Speedmaster is the first bike I bought after 15 years of not riding. These bikes are absolutley awesome for a first timer, a returning rider or an experienced rider.
Soren
Oates-I'm a delicate flower- 5'3", 125 lbs. and I manage the weight of my bike with no trouble- as Soren says, it's about how the weight is displaced, and the America is my favorite ride EVER ( after 2 Hondas and 4 HDs)- incredbily responsive and nimble, but good weight under me so I don't feel like I'm on a mini-bike on the highway.
I considered the VStar line, but was told (and read) repeatedly that the 650 was underpowered and boggy, so I thought about their 1100 for about a minute- but the America just really has so much more character than any other of the cruisers.
I dropped My Pretty Bonnie when she was only about 500 miles old at a stop light where the pavement beneath my feet was dippy...You can pick it up yourself.....There's a video somehwhere, I'll look for it, of how to pick up a dropped bike.
I hope that 07 deal takes shape for you!
"Let your soul shine,
It's better than sunshine,
It's better than moonshine,
****** sure better than rain."
-ABB
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 485
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 485 |
Buy a car based on logic. Buy a computer based on your needs and and features. Buy a home theater based on specifications. Buy a machine according to what you need. If you buy a machine (and Japan Inc makes great machines), that is what you will own; a machine. Nobody needs a motorcycle, everybody wants one when they buy theirs. Long story short, (and you have to own one to understand what I am saying), do not buy you motorcycle based on logic or specs, you might end up with just a machine.
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,541
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,541 |
Quote:
Buy a car based on logic. Buy a computer based on your needs and and features. Buy a home theater based on specifications. Buy a machine according to what you need. If you buy a machine (and Japan Inc makes great machines), that is what you will own; a machine. Nobody needs a motorcycle, everybody wants one when they buy theirs. Long story short, (and you have to own one to understand what I am saying), do not buy you motorcycle based on logic or specs, you might end up with just a machine.
Brilliantly written there bogie. Couldnt agree more.
Arsenalfan. AKA Mark Able
Seller of fine automobiles.
Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche of Chattanooga
423-424-4000
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,690
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,690 |
After a year and a half and 19,000 miles, the best thing I like about my '05, is that is "different". You go to any watering hole, and your the only Triumph / in-line in the lot...I went out Saturday night, there were 25 hardleys there, and I was the proudest to own the best bike there...
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 144
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 144 |
Quote:
Oates,
The only thing really kicking my butt is starting off on an uphill and that just needs practice and coordinating some new muscles.
Conwy
I have found that on My speedy I have taken to using the rear brake much more often than I have on other bikes to stabilise it at low speeds especially on hills. TRY IT
Phil C
If you dont believe there's a price for this sweet paradise
Remind me to show you the scars...
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Re: Still in the research phase of buying
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 6,432 Likes: 1 |
Quote:
Buy a car based on logic. Buy a computer based on your needs and and features. Buy a home theater based on specifications. Buy a machine according to what you need. If you buy a machine (and Japan Inc makes great machines), that is what you will own; a machine. Nobody needs a motorcycle, everybody wants one when they buy theirs. Long story short, (and you have to own one to understand what I am saying), do not buy you motorcycle based on logic or specs, you might end up with just a machine.
Yep, it's akin to the "need for speed" it's all about satisfying your desires and that requires heart over logic. Buy what you love, buy the best, and you'll never regret it.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. Herm Albright (1876 - 1944)
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